Posted on Thursday April 03, 2025

10 tips for travelling without dropping a bundle

With summer nearly upon us, you're looking forward to unplugging from the routine, packing your bags and setting off, leaving the day-to-day behind. Whatever your plans, here are 10 tips to help ensure an epic trip for the whole family without breaking the bank.

1. Draw up a budget

Budgeting for your getaway is an excellent habit to develop. Consistently putting cash aside over the weeks and months prior to your trip will help you save what need to get to your dream destination. Contributing to a TFSA is another good way of giving wings to your ideas.

2. Pre-plan!

If you're travelling with the kids, then you have to plan, at least minimally. Finding a suitable destination, selecting your accommodation, booking flights and activities ? all of these involve legwork if you're going to keep everybody happy. Put it off for too long, and you'll have to make do with whatever's left . . . which can mean compromises or paying through the nose. Need a passport? Don't leave it till the last minute. And finally, be sure to consider any shots or medications you may need.

3. Choose your destination

Here's a tip: to figure out where to go, determine first of all what it is you want from your holiday. Want to lie back and relax? An all-inclusive resort might fit the bill. Keen to sightsee? Give your children lasting memories? Questions like these can help you rule out certain options and gain clarity. Depending on the time of year, costs can also vary enormously. Summer's the time to snag hot deals on sun destinations; by the same token, expect to pay a lot more if you're heading for a place where it's high season. And don't forget to factor in the exchange rate: converting your Canadian dollars into local currency can have a huge impact on your budget.

4. Shop smart!

To avoid impulse buys (particularly costly destinations), limit your search criteria. Set up the search engine to show results strictly within the range of what you're willing to pay. You'll gain in efficiency and avoid being tempted by luxury getaways you can't afford. Same goes for flights: prices between airlines can vary wildly. If your dates are flexible, advancing or delaying your departure by a few days might save you a few dollars. Hotel and flight booking sites, in turn, let you compare prices as well as access reviews from other vacationers.

5. Insurance

With all the excitement of getting ready, you may be tempted to overlook insurance. If you're heading outside the province, be smart: get travel insurance, which covers health care costs in the event of injury or illness. Baggage insurance is something else to consider. If your vacation involves a long drive, call your insurer first to find out if your vehicle is adequately covered.

6. Deciding on accommodation

Staying in a hotel for days on end can be very costly! Look into other options. Friends, acquaintances, guesthouses, RVs and camping are some of the alternatives that can help you save money and enjoy something a little different.

7. Travel light!

Airlines limit the number of bags and impose penalties for overweight baggage. Basically, it's to your every advantage to pack light. Since you're also going to want to bring back a few souvenirs, then pack only what's strictly necessary, even if you have to pick up a few items once you're there. You're also well advised to check the regulations concerning substances and items you're allowed to fly with (or not). It would be a shame to buy things for your trip, only to have them confiscated at security.

8. Kid-friendly features

While researching your destination, look for headings like ?Why do kids like it?? or ?Why are families coming here?? You'll quickly spot the features that can make the experience into something magical your children will remember forever.

9. Plan outings before you leave

Booking early lets you ensure the best seats and possibly the best prices. Keep an eye out, too, for specials that could save you a few dollars. When added up, the savings can be significant.

10. Rediscover where you live

Tight budget? No time to plan? What about rediscovering New Brunswick? Good times, spontaneity and a chance to revisit favourite spots . . . in short, a budget vacation that's big on fun. What's not to like?

For your vacation ideas, wherever you go, contact the UNI business location nearest you. You'll find a host of solutions that, adapted to your specific needs, will help send you on your way!